Airline grounds mile-high passions
Applicants to the Mile-High Club, whose members claim amorous encounters at altitude, could be forgiven for having their excitement aroused by the prospect of a ride on the first A380 superjumbo passenger jet. Offering private cabins, the Singapore Airlines plane seems like a gift for in-flight fumblers previously faced with squeezing passions into tiny aircraft toilets or running the risk of embarrassment, outrage and injury in uncomfortable seats. The new Singapore A380 features 12 such "suites," each equipped with a fully-reclining double bed and a giant flat-screen television, all discreetly concealed behind sliding doors. But with the first couples lining up to prove that love is in the air, Singapore has been quick to point out that as well as serving champagne and canapes, its cabin crew will be pouring cold water on anyone getting carried away. "We ask all customers, wherever they are on our aircraft, to observe standards that don't cause offense to other customers and crew," the airline says. "Nothing different applies for our Singapore Airlines suites customers." The problem, it seems, is that while the cabins offer some privacy, they are not completely sealed and have no sound proofing, a fact no doubt highlighted by another advantage of the A380 -- quieter engines. Tony and Julie Elwood, who hoped their cabin on Singapore's inaugural A380 passenger flight to Sydney would give them a chance to create their own in-flight entertainment, were among the first to have their superjumbo passions grounded. "So they'll sell you a double bed, and give you privacy and endless champagne and then say you can't do what comes naturally?" Tony Elwood told the Times of London. "They seem to have done everything they can to make it romantic, short of bringing round oysters," Julie said. "I'd say they shouldn't really complain, should they?" |
